About housing

Everyone should have the opportunity to rent or buy a decent home at a price they can afford, in a place where they want to live and work.

But more homes are needed to meet the rising demands of a population that is both increasing and ageing. The Government has set a target to provide three million more homes in England by 2020 which will include more affordable homes to rent or buy.

Most people would like to own their home and there are a range of low cost home ownership schemes available for people who cannot afford to buy a property outright. The introduction of Home Information Packs will also help to improve the way that people buy and sell their homes.

The Government has also increased the rights and enhanced conditions for people renting their homes. Tackling homelessness is a key priority. Fewer people are sleeping rough and homelessness is at it lowest level since the early 1980s.

The number of households living in non-decent social homes has fallen by over a million - people's homes have been modernised and made more energy efficient. Furthermore the Government has stated that all new homes should be zero carbon by 2016 Both of these steps are crucial in tackling the effects of climate change.

Good design is crucial in creating places where people are proud to live. People need jobs, transport, health care, schools, shops, and green spaces - the Government has made commitments to provide the necessary infrastructure to create sustainable communities.

Need more information?

If you are a housing professional, work for a local authority or housing association and would like detailed information on government housing policy visit: